A recent survey suggests hiring new workers and increasing compensation will be the top priorities for many employers as the economy improves. When asked where they most likely will boost spending when the recovery occurs, 22 per cent of senior executives said he or she plans to hire additional staff and an equal number of respondents plan to increase salaries for current employees. Twenty per cent of respondents plan on investing in employee training.

Fourteen percent said increasing or reinstituting bonuses is a high priority, while six percent said enhancing current benefits programs is highest on the list. Twelve percent said they will not be increasing spending at all.

The survey was developed by Robert Half Finance & Accounting.